Research Assistant

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary range available for this position at the time of its posting. The salary range is between $46,035 and $58,234, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

Working under limited supervision, coordinate research work in medical and related technical areas related to the human microbiome. The Lewin Lab studies the role of the oral and vaginal microbiome in human health, with a focus on understanding how these organisms interact with each other and with their host. This Research Assistant 3 position will coordinate research projects with the goal to understand the behavior of bacteria and fungi in the human oral cavity.

This project is primarily computational, involving the analysis of RNA sequencing data (metatranscriptomics). Additional opportunities may include opportunities to use complementary computational or wet-lab approaches to study microbes associated with the oral cavity, female reproductive tract, or other polymicrobial sites. Key responsibilities will include sequencing data analysis and interpretation, facilitation of collaborations, mentoring students and junior technicians, and general lab support.

• Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature, primarily focused on bioinformatic analyses to characterize the physiology of the oral microbiota (bacterial and fungal components). Studies include but are not limited to RNA‑seq analysis and comparative genomics. (35%)
• Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. Develop and update pipelines for data analysis approaches, primarily focused on transcriptomics and genomics. (10%)
• Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyze data. Coordinate laboratory/research activities. Be able to evaluate parameters, perform validation approaches, and interrogate the underlying biological interpretation of findings. (15%)
• May co‑author research projects. Create reports and figures on activities to present at lab meetings, at conferences, and for publications. (10%)
• May supervise students and technicians. Train students and staff in computational approaches, data analysis, and other techniques related to microbiology and sequencing approaches. (10%)
• May monitor the laboratory budget and assist with ordering and lab support. (8%)

• Work closely with the principal investigator. Determine the direction of projects and plan experiments. (5%)
• Coordinate data integration with research collaborators. (5%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (2%)

Department:
Frequent (daily) contact with principal investigator and with other research personnel regarding project activities. Occasional contact with department administration to maintain workflows.

University:
Occasional contact with researchers in other departments regarding collaborative projects and to share information.

External:
Moderate contact with collaborators at outside research institutions to facilitate public sharing of data. Infrequent contact with vendors regarding supplies.

Students:
Frequent contact with students in the lab setting, acting as an additional mentor for students, and informally to explain data, techniques, etc., and to maintain workflows.

May supervise students and technicians.

• Experience:
  
  3 to 5 years of related experience required.
• Education:
  
  Bachelor of Science degree required.

• Has knowledge of commonly‑used concepts, practices, and procedures within microbiology, bioinformatics, and/or related disciplines.
• Relies on instructions and pre‑established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and work on a high‑performance computing cluster. Training will be provided in specific computational and…